iSupport for Dementia Carers study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A randomised controlled trial and feasibility study of the effects of an e-health intervention ‘iSupport’ for reducingdistress of dementia carers, especially in the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19.
IRAS ID
311565
Contact name
Gill Windle
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Bangor University
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN17420703
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
2021-16915, Bangor University School of Health and Medical Sciences Academic Ethics Committee approval
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Most people living with dementia in the UK are cared for at home by a family member or friend. Many unpaid carers experience poor mental and physical health compared to people who are not caring for someone with dementia.
The Randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to recruit 350 unpaid carers living in England, Wales, or Scotland in order to assess whether an online education and self-care website called ‘iSupport’ is more effective compared to reading an information booklet at reducing distress and symptoms of depression (primary outcomes), and improving mental wellness and knowledge of dementia (secondary outcomes). A researcher would administer outcome measures in an internet-based (e.g. Zoom) or telephone interview three times over a six month period. Out of the participants who complete all three interviews, up to 50 would be asked some additional open-ended questions about what it was like to use iSupport as part of a process evaluation.
The feasibility study aims to refine and adapt iSupport specifically for younger people who have some caring responsibilities (ages 11 – 17), and test if it would be feasible to conduct a full-stage study with younger people.
In either study cohort, to be eligible, participants need reliable access to the internet, to have been caring for someone with any type of dementia at least weekly for at least 6 months, to not be receiving mental health treatment at baseline, and the person they care for should not be living in a full-time care facility at baseline.
If we show iSupport is effective, service providers will benefit by knowing there is a proven service they can recommend, unpaid carers will benefit from reductions in psychological distress and improvements in skills and resilience, and people living with dementia will benefit from having a better-equipped informal carer.
REC name
London - City & East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/LO/0688
Date of REC Opinion
2 Nov 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion